Silent Auction

BYO’s 40th Anniversary Silent Auction will be held during the final concert on Sunday May 16, 2010. It promises to be a magnificent afternoon, full of great food, good wine, fabulous people, great deals, and - of course - wonderful music.

The primary purpose of the Silent Auction is to provide funding for scholarships to ensure that all members are able to stay with us throughout the year.

We hope each family will contribute by soliciting 2-3 donations from businesses, buying and donating an item (see wish list), or making a cash donation to BYO and we will buy an item from our wish list.

Soliciting Donations
We hope that each family will solicit 2-3 donations from businesses. Think about what you’d like to buy at a Silent Auction - something fun for you, for your kids, for your family. Here are some hints when contacting businesses:

• Approach merchants during the time of the day that is least busy for them. For example, if you are soliciting a restaurant avoid the lunch and dinner rush.
• Start with a quick phone call (or go in person) and briefly explain that you are from BYO and are seeking donations for our biggest fundraiser of the year.
• Please mention that they may have had a letter sent to them and they may have sent in a donation already. Thank them if they did.
• Offer to give or send them a letter regarding the pertinent details (see donor letter and donation certificate).

Make a Donation Yourself
Donations can be items you have, make, or buy (see wish list). In the past people have donated wine, loaded picnic baskets, mystery novels, jewelry, stays at a vacation home, and tickets to events. You can also donate services such as architectural services, hair cuts, or gardening.

Make a Cash Donation Toward Auction Items
Turn in a check (made out to BYO) or cash by May 1 and Silent Auction Committee members will purchase an item from the wish list.

All items should be turned in no later than May 8 (the earlier, the better).